Anyone heading to the food and craft market on Chelmsford High Street this weekend? I’m thinking of popping down after a walk through Central Park and grabbing a coffee near Moulsham Street, but I’m not sure what time it gets busiest. If you’ve been before, is it better first thing or more of an afternoon atmosphere, and is it worth booking a table at the Railway Tavern afterwards?

Grays is gearing up for a lively few weeks, with everything from riverside walks and local history talks to family-friendly workshops popping up around the town centre and the Thames. If you’re planning a day out, our tip is to pair an event with a wander along the waterfront and a quick stop at a local café to make a proper outing of it. What kinds of events would you love to see more of in Grays this autumn, and which venues do you think deserve a bigger spotlight?

Anyone know what time the live music starts at The Victoria Tavern on High Road this Saturday? I’m thinking of doing a proper Loughton evening – quick pint there, then a stroll up towards Epping Forest via Staples Road before grabbing a takeaway from one of the spots near the station. If you’ve been to one of their nights recently, is it worth booking a table or can you usually just wander in?